With the record number of container ships waiting for a berth to unload in late 2021 at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach frequently in the news, many might have thought those numbers would start to dissipate after the end of peak season.

Think again.

A chart this week from the UK's Financial Times tells the tale: the number of waiting ships continues to grow, reaching a record 105 ships last week.

Source: Financial Times

And most experts expect the large backlog to contnue.

Joerg Wolle, chairman at 3PL Kuehne + Nagel, told the Financial Times that inefficiency at the ports and the truck driver shortage, neither of which have short-term fixes, mean the system is simply unable to cope with a demand surge.

And be aware: the union contract with the ports expires in July - and that could lead to work stoppages or of coure even a strike by dock workers.

Any reaction to our Supply Chain Graphic of the Week? Let us know your thoughts at the Feedback button below.

Your Comments/Feedback